Jimmy Rose, a 33-year-old singer from Pineville who sang from the heart about coal mining, took third on the Sept. 18 two-hour finale of ‘America’s Got Talent.’

“This has been a crazy experience and a humbling experience,” Rose said after he was eliminated. “Coal mining has taken such a huge hit and I’m just proud to represent it in a positive way.”

Dance performer Kenichi Ebina won the competition.

Rose, an Iraq veteran who worked as a miner, performed in the finale with country singer Dierks Bentley. On the Sept. 17th show, Rose performed his signature song, ‘Coal Keeps the Lights On,’ and Garth Brooks’ ‘The Dance.’
The judges responded favorably. “I love your voice, I loved that performance and I think America has to vote for you,” former Spice Girl Mel B told Rose.

A graduate of Pineville High School, Rose is an alumnus of Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College, having attended the college from 2009 through the fall 2012 semester.

SKCTC Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Rebecca J. Parrott, a staunch supporter and friend of Rose, noted: “Jimmy showed his true, humble and immeasurable character throughout the entire America’s Got Talent process. His love for southeastern Kentucky, his family and his friends is so obvious and is a perfect representation of our region,” she said. “Myself, along with all Southeast staff, faculty and students are so proud of Jimmy for pursuing his dreams and standing firm in his beliefs. We wish him nothing but happiness and success for his future and his career.”